Refrigerator Reviews
    RefrigeratorHQ is reader-supported. We may earn commissions on qualifying purchases. >
    Refrigerator ReviewsRefrigerator Reviews
    • Brands
      • Amana
      • Bosch
      • Cafe Appliances
      • Electrolux Appliances
      • FORNO Appliances
      • Frigidare
      • Galanz
      • GE
      • Haier
      • Hisense Appliances
      • JennAir
      • Kenmore
      • KitchenAid Appliances
      • LG
      • Maytag Appliances
      • Magic Chef Appliances
      • Samsung
      • SMEG
      • Whirlpool
    • Refrigerators
      • Bar Fridge
      • Built In
      • Freezer on Bottom
      • Freezer on Top
      • French Door
      • Mini Fridge
      • Smart Fridge
    • Freezers
      • Chest Freezer
      • Upright Freezer
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    RefrigeratorHQ is reader-supported. We may earn commissions on qualifying purchases. >
    Refrigerator Reviews
    Home » What Is a Compact Refrigerator?
    Compact refrigerator
    Refrigerators

    What Is a Compact Refrigerator?

    March 30, 2022Updated:March 30, 2022No Comments
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email

    Compact refrigerators provide reliable cooling for small quantities of food and drink. Dimensions can vary considerably, but these fridges are typically between 18 and 25 inches wide and may accommodate anywhere from 1.5 to 7 cubic feet. Occasionally, larger models reach nearly 10 cubic feet. 

    Compact fridges fall into several subcategories, including:

    • Cube fridges. As the smallest compact refrigerators, cube fridges can rarely hold more than a few cans of soda. Their diminutive, cube-like shape allows them to fit within the smallest spaces imaginable.
    • Mini fridges. Often found in dorm rooms, mini fridges represent the standard that comes to mind when most people picture compact fridges. Inexpensive and versatile, they can store a few days’ worth of snacks or beverages.
    • Apartment-sized fridges. Larger than a conventional compact fridge, apartment-sized fridges can store bulkier items that might not fit in cube or mini fridges. They’re usually similar in height to standard refrigerators but also far narrower. 

    Things To Look for in Compact Fridges

    When selecting a compact refrigerator, size and capacity should be your chief considerations. This type of fridge should be small enough to fit in tight spaces but large enough to accommodate your desired food items.

    How much storage space is needed will vary from one person to the next. A dorm room or basement space may not need more than a few soda cans. Apartment dwellers, however, might use a compact model as their main fridge. 

    Likewise, some people may worry about how a particular fridge will fit into an existing layout, but this isn’t a huge concern for others. Before selecting a compact fridge, think carefully about what you want and how various dimensions or features might fit into that vision.

    Get the Most Food Storage Options With Adjustable Shelves

    Flexibility is key for compact fridges, which can often hold far more than their small appearance suggests. Sometimes, it’s not necessary to seek a larger capacity.

    Depending on your storage preferences, you may be able to store tall or bulky products simply by adjusting the shelves. Removable shelves can be strategically placed according to what you want to keep in the fridge at any given time. Although not as easy to adjust, in-door storage also provides excellent opportunities for storing unusually shaped items. 

    Keep the Temperature at the Right Level for Food Safety With Adjustable Thermostat Controls

    Temperature control can be surprisingly tricky when storing food in a compact refrigerator. Some models don’t provide nearly as much oversight as users would like. Many, however, come with adjustable thermostat controls that can be dialed up or down as needed.

    Depending on the fridge model, the dial for adjusting the thermostat may be marked with levels from 1 to 5 or 1 to 7, with higher numbers representing warmer settings. In most situations, numbers in the middle range — 3 or 4, for example — will provide the most reliable cooling.

    Ask Yourself if You Need a Freezer Compartment for Frozen Foods

    Not all compact refrigerators come with freezer sections — and those that do sometimes fail to produce as frosty of a chill as people desire. If your compact fridge will be used primarily for storing drinks or simple snacks, a freezer compartment might not be necessary. 

    A freezer compartment adds versatility to your compact fridge’s capabilities, but built-in varieties often have weaker cooling.

    If you do prefer access to a mini refrigerator freezer, be prepared to select one of these main options:

    • Built-in freezers. A convenient mini fridge with freezer solution for modest chilling needs, built-in freezers are compartments situated within the main fridge. But keep in mind that these aren’t nearly as effective for cooling as designs that keep the freezer section separate. 
    • Separate freezers. This setup can be helpful when you need the cooling power of a conventional freezer but are short on space. Typically, the separate freezer compartment sits at the top of the compact fridge. This may occupy considerably more space than compact fridges with built-in freezers — or no freezers at all.

    In addition to freezer compartments, many small refrigerators include dedicated drawers meant to store specific types of food. For example, crisper drawers provide a slightly more humid environment than the fridge’s standard shelves. This is an ideal location for storing fruits and vegetables.

    Maximize Versatility With Reversible Doors

    Capable of swinging open to the right or left, reversible doors maximize limited space. This is an excellent option if you eventually need to move your small fridge to a new location and are eager to avoid bumping the door against cabinets or walls. Reversible hinges are also handy for lefties, who often find standard fridge doors cumbersome to open and close.

    Get the Most Cubic Feet of Space for Your Available Floor Space

    While the various features highlighted above can be helpful, your main goal should be to maximize storage space without worrying about excess bulk. This can be accomplished, to an extent, with the aforementioned adjustable shelves — but it’s also essential to look carefully at fridge specifications.

    Sometimes, fridges that appear sizable accommodate far fewer items than anticipated. Special compartments that seem to improve convenience may occupy precious space.  

    Clarify early on whether you’re willing to sacrifice height for width or depth — or vice versa. Taller fridges can be helpful when minimal floor space is available, but many people prefer compact fridges that fit easily beneath counters. 

    Get the Best Energy Efficiency With Energy Star Certified Mini Fridges

    When in doubt, opt for Energy Star certified products. This helps you lead a green lifestyle while minimizing the cost of running an extra fridge. Keep in mind that while this designation rules out the most environmentally harmful fridges, some certified appliances aren’t as eco-friendly as others. 

    Be prepared to do additional research to feel confident that your compact fridge helps you minimize your carbon footprint. Pay attention to the type of coolant used in each model. When possible, R600a is preferable to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which are still found in some Energy Star fridges.

    Find the Right Compact Mini Fridge for You

    If you want to store a variety of foods and beverages in a small space, opt for a mini fridge — such as the Galanz GLR46TBKER 4.6-Cu. Ft. Retro Mini Fridge — with plenty of compartments and a separate freezer. If you need something extra small and simple, consider the Midea WHS-65LB1 1.6-Cu. Ft. Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator or the Galanz GL27BK 2.7-Cu. Ft. Mini Fridge.

    A wide array of compact refrigerators can keep your snacks and drinks perfectly cool. With so many options available, you should have no trouble finding a fantastic food storage solution to meet your unique needs. 

    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email

    Related Posts

    How to Keep a Refrigerator Outside Throughout the Year

    December 2, 2022

    Best Way to Organize a Fridge for Food Storage and Preservation

    November 23, 2022

    Top 5 Small Bar Fridges With Glass Doors Reviewed

    November 18, 2022

    You must log in to post a comment.

    Search Refrigerator HQ
    Take a Survey
    Our Bestselling Refrigerator of 2022
    Sale Galanz Retro Compact Mini Fridge with Freezer, 2-Door, Energy Efficient, Small Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, 3.1 cu ft, Black
    Galanz Retro Compact Mini Fridge with Freezer, 2-Door, Energy Efficient, Small Refrigerator for Dorm, Office, Bedroom, 3.1 cu ft, Black
    Amazon Prime
    $238.22
    Buy on Amazon
    Categories
    • Brands
    • Refrigerators
      • Bar Fridge
      • Built In Refrigerators
      • Freezer on Bottom
      • Freezer on Top
      • French Door Refrigerators
      • Mini Fridge
      • Smart Fridge
    • Freezers
      • Chest Freezer
      • Upright Freezer
    Danby 4.4 Cu. Ft. Outdoor Mini Fridge
    Sale Danby DAR044A6BSLDBO 4.4 Cu.Ft. Outdoor Mini Fridge, IPX4-Rated Stainless Steel Look All Refrigerator for Patio, Cabana, Pool Bar, E-Star Rated, Spotless Steel
    Danby DAR044A6BSLDBO 4.4 Cu.Ft. Outdoor Mini Fridge, IPX4-Rated Stainless Steel Look All Refrigerator for Patio, Cabana, Pool Bar, E-Star Rated, Spotless Steel
    $493.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Popular Posts
    Best Selling Refrigerators
    Bestseller No. 1 Frigidaire EFR751, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator with Freezer, 7.2 cu ft, Platinum Series, Stainless Steel, 7.5
    Frigidaire EFR751, 2 Door Apartment Size Refrigerator with Freezer, 7.2 cu ft, Platinum Series, Stainless Steel, 7.5
    Amazon Prime
    $421.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 RCA RFR741-BLACK Apartment Size-Top Freezer-2 Door Fridge-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Black-7.5 Cubic Feet
    RCA RFR741-BLACK Apartment Size-Top Freezer-2 Door Fridge-Adjustable Thermostat Control-Black-7.5 Cubic Feet
    Amazon Prime
    $330.96
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 3 Galanz GLR10TS5F Refrigerator, Adjustable Electrical Thermostat Control with Top Mount Freezer Compartment, 10.0 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel Look, 10
    Galanz GLR10TS5F Refrigerator, Adjustable Electrical Thermostat Control with Top Mount Freezer Compartment, 10.0 Cu.Ft, Stainless Steel Look, 10
    $799.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 4 GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36' 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with 27.6 cu. ft. Total Capacity in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
    GE Profile PVD28BYNFS 36" 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with 27.6 cu. ft. Total Capacity in Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel
    $2,879.00
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 5 Frestec 4.7 CU' Refrigerator, Mini Fridge with Freezer, Compact Refrigerator,Small Refrigerator with Freezer,Top Freezer, Adjustable Thermostat Control, Stainless Steel Look (FR 472 SL)
    Frestec 4.7 CU' Refrigerator, Mini Fridge with Freezer, Compact Refrigerator,Small Refrigerator with Freezer,Top Freezer, Adjustable Thermostat Control, Stainless Steel Look (FR 472 SL)
    Amazon Prime
    $320.29
    Buy on Amazon
    Best Selling Refrigerator Accessories
    Bestseller No. 1 12 Pcs Refrigerator Liners, MayNest Washable Mats Covers Pads, Home Kitchen Gadgets Accessories Organization for Top Freezer Glass Shelf Wire Shelving Cupboard Cabinet Drawers (12 White)
    12 Pcs Refrigerator Liners, MayNest Washable Mats Covers Pads, Home Kitchen Gadgets Accessories Organization for Top Freezer Glass Shelf Wire Shelving Cupboard Cabinet Drawers (12 White)
    Amazon Prime
    $14.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 4 Pcs Refrigerator Water Drip Catcher, Fridge Absorbent Mat Water Drip Tray Splash Guard Pads Catcher for Whirlpool,Samsung Refrigerator Water Drip Pan &Ice Dispenser Accessories-Rectangular,Black
    4 Pcs Refrigerator Water Drip Catcher, Fridge Absorbent Mat Water Drip Tray Splash Guard Pads Catcher for Whirlpool,Samsung Refrigerator Water Drip Pan &Ice Dispenser Accessories-Rectangular,Black
    Amazon Prime
    $16.93
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 3 ELCOOR Refrigerator Door Handle Covers, Set of 6, Trimmable, Washable, Appliance Handle Covers, Fridge Door Handle Protector, Get Rid of Dirty Handprints. Timesaver, Kitchen Decor Accessories (Grey)
    ELCOOR Refrigerator Door Handle Covers, Set of 6, Trimmable, Washable, Appliance Handle Covers, Fridge Door Handle Protector, Get Rid of Dirty Handprints. Timesaver, Kitchen Decor Accessories (Grey)
    Amazon Prime
    $14.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 4 MILIJIA 2PCS Magnetic Storage Baskets for Refrigerator, Strongly Magnet Spice Rack, Fridge Storage Shelf, Great for Kitchen and Pantry
    MILIJIA 2PCS Magnetic Storage Baskets for Refrigerator, Strongly Magnet Spice Rack, Fridge Storage Shelf, Great for Kitchen and Pantry
    Amazon Prime
    $21.95
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 5 YekouMax Fridge Drawer Organizer, Refrigerator Organizer Bins, Pull Out with Handle, Fridge Shelf Holder Storage Box, Clear Container for Food,Drinks,Fit for Fridge Shelf Under 0.6' (1 Pack Medium)
    YekouMax Fridge Drawer Organizer, Refrigerator Organizer Bins, Pull Out with Handle, Fridge Shelf Holder Storage Box, Clear Container for Food,Drinks,Fit for Fridge Shelf Under 0.6" (1 Pack Medium)
    Amazon Prime
    $19.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Best Selling Freezers
    Bestseller No. 1 Frigidaire EFRF696-AMZ Upright Freezer 6.5 cu ft Stainless Platinum Design Series,Silver
    Frigidaire EFRF696-AMZ Upright Freezer 6.5 cu ft Stainless Platinum Design Series,Silver
    Amazon Prime
    $399.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 Koolatron Large Chest Freezer, 7.0 cu ft (195L), White, Manual Defrost Deep Freeze, Storage Basket, Space-Saving Flat Back, Stay-Open Lid, Front-Access Drain, for Basement, Laundry Room, Cottage
    Koolatron Large Chest Freezer, 7.0 cu ft (195L), White, Manual Defrost Deep Freeze, Storage Basket, Space-Saving Flat Back, Stay-Open Lid, Front-Access Drain, for Basement, Laundry Room, Cottage
    $349.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 3 Igloo ICFMD35WH6A 3.5 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer with Removable Basket, Free-Standing Door Temperature Ranges From-10° to 10° F, Front Defrost Water Drain, Perfect for Homes, Garages, Basements, RVs, White
    Igloo ICFMD35WH6A 3.5 Cu. Ft. Chest Freezer with Removable Basket, Free-Standing Door Temperature Ranges From-10° to 10° F, Front Defrost Water Drain, Perfect for Homes, Garages, Basements, RVs, White
    Amazon Prime
    $184.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 4 Midea MRC070S0AWW Chest Freezer, 7.0 Cubic Feet, White
    Midea MRC070S0AWW Chest Freezer, 7.0 Cubic Feet, White
    Amazon Prime
    $309.00
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 5 Koolatron Compact Chest Freezer, 5.0 cu ft (155L), White, Manual Defrost Deep Freeze, Storage Basket, Space-Saving Flat Back, Stay-Open Lid, Front-Access Defrost Drain, for Apartment, Condo, Cottage
    Koolatron Compact Chest Freezer, 5.0 cu ft (155L), White, Manual Defrost Deep Freeze, Storage Basket, Space-Saving Flat Back, Stay-Open Lid, Front-Access Defrost Drain, for Apartment, Condo, Cottage
    Amazon Prime
    $228.00
    Buy on Amazon
    Best Selling Freezer Accessories
    Bestseller No. 1 Freezer Wire Baskets, Kitchen Storage Organizer Bins for Chest and Upright Freezer, Refrigerator Dividers Containers with Handles - Pearl White (4)
    Freezer Wire Baskets, Kitchen Storage Organizer Bins for Chest and Upright Freezer, Refrigerator Dividers Containers with Handles - Pearl White (4)
    Amazon Prime
    $29.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 2 KoolMore - MCF-9C Commercial Ice Cream Freezer Display Case, Glass Top Chest Freezer with 3 Storage Baskets and Sliding Lid, Large 9 cu. ft. Capacity, White
    KoolMore - MCF-9C Commercial Ice Cream Freezer Display Case, Glass Top Chest Freezer with 3 Storage Baskets and Sliding Lid, Large 9 cu. ft. Capacity, White
    $1,099.00
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 3 YouCopia FreezeUp Freezer Bin 15', Fridge Organizer with Storage, BPA-Free Food-Safe Container
    YouCopia FreezeUp Freezer Bin 15", Fridge Organizer with Storage, BPA-Free Food-Safe Container
    Amazon Prime
    $29.99
    Buy on Amazon
    Bestseller No. 4 Set of 6 Refrigerator Organizer Bins, Door Shelf Basket Storage Bins for Fridge, Counter, Cabinet, Pantry Kitchen Organization and Food Storage - Plastic Organizers Bin, BPA Free
    Set of 6 Refrigerator Organizer Bins, Door Shelf Basket Storage Bins for Fridge, Counter, Cabinet, Pantry Kitchen Organization and Food Storage - Plastic Organizers Bin, BPA Free
    Amazon Prime
    $14.99
    Buy on Amazon
    SaleBestseller No. 5 SANNO Freezer Baskets Wire Storage Baskets Closet Baskets Bin Farmhouse Organizer Storage Bins Organization Storage for Home, Office, Bathroom, Pantry -Set of 2, 15.7'
    SANNO Freezer Baskets Wire Storage Baskets Closet Baskets Bin Farmhouse Organizer Storage Bins Organization Storage for Home, Office, Bathroom, Pantry -Set of 2, 15.7"
    Amazon Prime
    $20.90
    Buy on Amazon
    Navigate
    • Refrigerators
    • Freezers
    Site Information
    • About Us
    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Contact Us
    • How Star Ratings Work
    Powered By The DealNews Network

    501 Madison St SE Suite 200
    Huntsville, AL 35801
    (256)971-6840
    DealNews, Inc

    Affiliate Disclaimer

    RefrigeratorHQ contains links to affiliate websites, and we may earn commissions for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Learn more about our affiliate disclaimer.

    © 2023 DealNews. Built by Press Foundry.
    • Refrigerators
    • Freezers

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

     

    Loading Comments...
     

    You must be logged in to post a comment.